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Planning your dream trip to Banff? You’re in the right place!
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re back for more mountain magic, this three-day itinerary covers the absolute best of Banff’s summer highlights. From soaring gondola rides to glacier-fed lakes, cozy cafés, and unforgettable moments, we’ve packed it all in without making it feel rushed.
We know how tricky it can be to fit everything into a short trip, which is exactly why we put this guide together based on real experiences, our personal tips, and a love for everything Banff has to offer. Let’s dive into three days of adventure, fresh air, and incredible memories!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE activity in Banff was this scenic gondola ride. The views from Sulphur Mountain are breathtaking, and walking the ridge-top boardwalk to the old weather station made it feel like we were on top of the world!
Day 1
Breakfast – Wild Flour Bakery
If you’re anything like us, nothing kickstarts a day of adventure quite like a cozy café and a fresh pastry. Wild Flour Bakery, a local favorite right in downtown Banff, opens bright and early at 7:00 am, making it perfect for a quick breakfast before your morning at the Banff Gondola.
Expect rich, locally roasted coffee, flaky croissants, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and a few vegan-friendly treats too. It’s just a short stroll to the Roam Transit bus stop on Banff Avenue, so you’ll be fueled up and ready for the mountains in no time.
Morning – Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain
After breakfast, it’s time to head for one of Banff’s absolute must-do experiences, the Banff Gondola! Just a 5-minute drive from town (or a quick ride on the Roam public bus Route 1), the gondola whisks you up Sulphur Mountain for some of the most jaw-dropping views in the Rockies. If you’re planning on driving, try to get here early, as the parking spaces fill up quickly!
We’ve done this ride nearly a dozen times ourselves, and it never gets old. The gondola ride itself is quick and scenic, taking just about 8 minutes to reach the summit. Gondolas start running at 9:10 am and leave every 20 minutes throughout the day, so even if you miss one, you’ll never be waiting long.
At the top, an incredible 7,510 feet (2,289 meters) above sea level, you’ll find panoramic viewpoints, interactive exhibits, a cozy café, and a gift shop. Most people spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring everything up here, including the boardwalk that leads out to the historic Sulphur Mountain Weather Station.
It’s an easy, rewarding walk, taking about an hour round-trip if you want to go all the way to the end, and trust us, the views from there are worth every step.
Book your Banff Gondola admission tickets ahead of time here!
Lunch – Sky Bistro
After exploring the summit, there’s no better way to keep soaking in the views than by sitting down for lunch at Sky Bistro. Perched right at the top of the Banff Gondola, this spot pairs incredible mountain scenery with a cozy, modern atmosphere, making it a real highlight of the day.
Sky Bistro is open daily for lunch from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, and we definitely recommend making a reservation in advance if you can. If you’re able to snag a table by the window, you’ll be treated to panoramic views while you enjoy a locally inspired menu featuring hearty Canadian classics and fresh seasonal ingredients.
Afternoon – Banff Upper Hot Springs
After a big morning of sightseeing and a delicious mountaintop lunch, there’s nothing better than winding down with a soak at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Conveniently located right at the base of Sulphur Mountain, the hot springs are just a short walk from the gondola’s lower terminal, so make sure to pack a swimsuit and towel in your day bag!
The mineral-rich waters here stay naturally heated to around 37–40 °C (98–104 °F), offering a soothing, spa-like experience with gorgeous mountain views all around. Admission is $17.50 CAD per adult for the swimming pool, or you can upgrade to the full Thermal Waters Pass for $24 CAD per adult if you want to make it extra special.
Dinner – The Grizzly House
After a relaxing soak at the hot springs, you’ll probably want to swing back by your hotel to freshen up before dinner, and trust us, tonight’s meal is one you’ll remember! The Grizzly House is one of Banff’s most iconic restaurants, located right on lively Banff Avenue, and it’s all about fun, fondue, and a seriously retro vibe.
Originally opened as a disco nightclub in the 1960s (yes, really!), today it’s a cozy, slightly quirky spot that leans into its vintage charm. The menu is packed with classic cheese fondues, sizzling hot rock selections, and even some adventurous options if you’re feeling bold. It’s a popular place, especially in the evenings, so we definitely recommend making a reservation ahead of time to snag a table.
Evening – Explore Banff Ave
After dinner, it’s time to explore Banff Avenue, the lively main street running through the heart of town. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it easy to spend a few relaxed hours browsing, snacking, and soaking up the atmosphere. This is Banff at its most vibrant, especially on a warm summer evening.
Grab Dessert
If you’ve still got a little room after dinner, head just a couple of minutes down Banff Avenue to BeaverTails. This walk-up spot serves one of Canada’s most beloved treats, a warm, fried pastry that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella and Reese’s Pieces.
It’s casual, quick, and perfect for grabbing a dessert to enjoy while you continue strolling along Banff’s bustling main street.
Go shopping
Banff Avenue is packed with shops, and whether you decide to grab dessert or not, now’s the perfect time to do a little browsing. You’ll find everything from outdoor clothing stores to souvenir shops, with plenty of fun stops along the way. One place we always recommend checking out is Cool As A Moose, it’s hands-down the best spot in town for unique, quirky souvenirs.
Most stores stay open until around 9:00 pm during the summer months, giving you lots of time to shop, wander, and maybe pick up a few mementos from your first day in Banff.
Visit the Banff Candy Store
For a sweet little detour, pop into the Banff Candy Store, just a short walk along Banff Avenue. This colorful shop is packed with Canadian classics, including handmade chocolates, maple sweets, and old-fashioned saltwater taffy. This is a fun stop to pick up a few treats for later, or to sample something new right on the spot.
Go Bowling
If you’re up for some active fun after your evening stroll, High Rollers is the place to be. This lively bowling alley and bar is right in town and stays open late, making it a great option for a relaxed (or competitive!) end to the night.
There are just six lanes, so it’s smart to book ahead if you’re set on playing, but even if you just stop in for a drink or a slice of their famous pizza, it’s a fun, casual spot to hang out. High Rollers is open until 2:00 am, so there’s no rush to call it a night.
Enjoy a drink at Park Distillery
Cap off your night with a stop at Park Distillery, a favorite spot right on Banff Avenue. They make their own drinks using pure glacier water— they’re smooth, creative, and just what you need to wind down after a big first day.
It’s a relaxed, welcoming place to sit back, sip something delicious, and soak up a little more of Banff’s lively evening atmosphere.
Day 2
Breakfast – Grab and Go!
Today kicks off with a full-day tour to some of the most iconic spots around Banff, so it’s best to keep breakfast simple. We recommend grabbing something quick and easy from a café near your hotel, like a breakfast sandwich, muffin, or smoothie to go.
With the tour starting at 9:00 am and hotel pickup included, there’s no need to stress, just fuel up and be ready for a big day of exploring!
Morning/Afternoon – Visit Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Icefields Parkway
Today is all about seeing the Rockies at their most jaw-dropping, think shimmering turquoise lakes, glacier-fed valleys, and some of the most iconic scenery in Canada. This full-day sightseeing tour kicks off at 9:00 am with hotel pickup included from hotels in Banff, so there’s no need to worry about the drive.
If you’re based outside of Banff, no worries! You can head over to the designated pick-up points, and they also offer pickup from Canmore.
Trust us, you don’t want to try navigating this route on your own. Parking at Lake Louise is a nightmare in the summer, and private vehicles aren’t even allowed at Moraine Lake anymore. Booking a guided tour is truly the only stress-free way to see these places.
Operated by a friendly, family-run company, this tour delivers a perfect mix of postcard-worthy stops and local insight. The day starts with a quick 20-minute stop at Lake Minnewanka, followed by about an hour at Lake Louise, one of the most photographed spots in the country.
From there, you’ll continue along the legendary Icefields Parkway, known as one of the most scenic drives in the world, with additional stops at Moraine Lake, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake. Each location gets around an hour, giving you time to snap photos, wander, and soak in the views without feeling rushed.
We loved how our guide shared stories and fun facts throughout the journey, it felt personal and immersive rather than scripted. The group size is capped at 22 people, which creates a relaxed vibe and makes it easy to chat with fellow travelers along the way. The whole tour runs about 8 to 9 hours, and we think it’s a fantastic value for everything that’s packed in.
By the time you return to Banff in the early evening, you’ll have seen more of the Rockies in one day than most people manage in an entire trip, all without the headache of traffic, shuttle schedules, or packed parking lots.
You can check out over 600+ 5-star reviews and book this popular tour here!
Moraine Lake Bus Company
If you prefer to visit Moraine Lake independently, we highly recommend booking a shuttle with Moraine Lake Bus Company. Sure, Parks Canada offers shuttles too—but we once made the mistake of using them and ended up waiting in line for HOURS just to get home!
With the Moraine Lake Bus Company, you can book a guaranteed seat and departure time, so there’s no stressful wait. They offer a wide range of dates and times, and you get to choose exactly when you want to leave.
The most popular options are the sunrise shuttle and early morning departures, so be sure to book well in advance. Plus, if your plans change, you can modify your booking up to 24 hours before—meaning you can even switch to another day if the weather isn’t looking great.
Shuttles pick up from Lake Louise Village or the Lake Louise Ski Resort parking lot (they’re the only company operating from this location) and drop you directly at Moraine Lake. You can also opt for a stop at Lake Louise or book their Lake Louise shuttle, which we always do—parking there is nearly impossible!
After taking this shuttle ourselves, we were impressed by how smooth and hassle-free the process was. It’s easily the most convenient way to visit Moraine Lake on your own.
Check availability and book the Moriane Lake Bus Company here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Banff Ave Brewing
After a full day of exploring lakes, peaks, and parkways, you’ll be more than ready for a relaxed meal back in town, and Banff Ave Brewing is the perfect casual spot to unwind. Located right on Banff Avenue, this laid-back brewpub serves up hearty comfort food, cold craft beers, and classic Canadian poutine that hits the spot after a day outdoors.
The tour usually wraps up between 5:00 and 6:00 pm, giving you just enough time to freshen up and grab a table without feeling rushed. Whether you’re in the mood for burgers, fish and chips, or just a sampler flight of local brews, this is a cozy, no-fuss way to end a big day in the Rockies.
Evening – Walk to Bow River Falls
To finish off the day, take a gentle evening stroll along the Bow River, a peaceful way to unwind after dinner and let the day’s adventures sink in. The path to Bow River Falls starts right in town and is an easy 1.5 km (0.9 mi) walk each way, with scenic views and plenty of spots to pause along the riverbank.
In the summer, the sun doesn’t set until well after 9:00 pm, so you’ll have plenty of daylight to enjoy the trail without needing to rush. It’s a quiet, beautiful stretch of Banff that feels like a hidden gem, especially with the glow of golden hour lighting up the water.
Related Read: If you’re planning to visit Banff during the winter, check out our guide to the best winter activities here!
Day 3
Breakfast – Tooloulous
Start your final morning in Banff with a hearty brunch at Tooloulous, one of the town’s most beloved breakfast spots. This Cajun-meets-Canadian diner is tucked right in downtown and serves up massive portions of comfort food with a Southern twist. From creamy eggs Benedict to indulgent banana bread French toast, the menu is packed with crowd-pleasers that’ll fuel you for a full day outdoors.
The restaurant opens at 8:00 am daily and doesn’t take reservations for breakfast, so it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends when the line can stretch out the door.
Morning – Explore Johnston Canyon
After breakfast, it’s time to head out to Johnston Canyon, one of Banff’s most beautiful and accessible hiking spots! Just a 30-minute drive from town, this scenic trail winds through a dramatic limestone canyon with waterfalls, catwalks, and shady forest paths. There’s free parking at the trailhead, or you can hop on Roam Transit Route 9 for an easy, car-free ride.
Most visitors take the classic hike, which leads to the Lower and Upper Falls along a well-maintained trail that’s suitable for nearly all fitness levels. Expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here if you’re walking at a relaxed pace and stopping for photos, and trust us, you’ll want to.
If you’re looking for a more active way to experience the canyon, there’s also this guided e-bike and hike tour that leaves from Banff at 9:00 am. You’ll cycle a scenic route to the trailhead and then hike through the canyon with a local guide, learning about the geology, history, and wildlife along the way.
It’s a 4-hour round trip and a great choice if you want a bit more movement before settling in for lunch.
You can read their glowing reviews and reserve your spot in advance here!
Lunch – Farm & Fire
Once you’re back in town, let’s settle in for a cozy lunch at Farm & Fire, a cozy and inviting restaurant located right on Banff Avenue. This spot is all about comfort food with a thoughtful twist, using local, seasonal ingredients and cooking everything in their signature wood-fired oven.
Whether you’re craving a fresh flatbread, a slow-roasted veggie dish, or something a little heartier, Farm & Fire strikes a nice balance between rustic and refined. After a morning out in the canyons, it’s the kind of place that hits the spot without feeling heavy, just what you need before the final afternoon adventure.
Afternoon – Canoe on the river
With a tasty lunch in your belly, it’s time to make your way down to the riverfront for this 1.5-hour guided canoe tour, which offers a totally different perspective on Banff! The meeting point is just an 8-minute walk from Farm & Fire, and with a 3:00 pm departure, you’ll have time to digest, and maybe even pop into a couple of shops along the way.
This canoe tour takes you along the turquoise waters of the Bow River, winding past mountain peaks and peaceful forested banks. The trails and viewpoints along the river can get really busy during the summer, so we found that canoeing was an amazing way to beat the crowds and spend a tranquil couple of hours exploring.
It’s one of our favorite ways to get outside in Banff, slower-paced than a hike, but just as immersive. And since the guide handles the steering, you can focus on paddling gently and enjoying the ride without any stress.
Grab your spot on this relaxing river experience here!
Dinner – The Bison Restaurant
To wrap up your final full day in Banff, treat yourself to a meal at The Bison, one of our favorite spots in town. This rustic-chic restaurant blends cozy mountain charm with upscale Canadian cuisine, and it’s a great place to slow down and savor the evening. If you visit in the summer, there’s even a patio you can dine on!
We recommend trying the bison short ribs or a perfectly cooked cut of Alberta beef; both are rich, flavorful, and well worth the splurge!
Since the start time for your evening activity can vary depending on the season, you’ll want to plan dinner around it. The Bison stays open until 9:00 pm, so you’ve got flexibility to relax at the hotel after your canoe trip, freshen up, and enjoy a slightly later meal before heading out for one last Banff adventure.
Evening – Stargazing tour
There’s no better way to wrap up your time in Banff than by heading out under the stars. With almost no light pollution once you leave town, the skies here are seriously something else. On a clear night, you might even catch the Milky Way stretching out above you.
And while there’s no guarantee, Banff is also known to occasionally put on a show with the Northern Lights, although that’s more common in the colder months.
This stargazing tour leaves from near downtown around sunset and takes you on a gentle 2-hour hike into the park. You’ll be with a small group, no more than five people, so it feels personal and easygoing. Along the way, your guide will help you spot constellations, share stories about Banff’s night sky and history, and maybe even point out some nocturnal wildlife you wouldn’t see during the day.
The tour runs year-round, Monday through Friday, and costs $88 CAD per person, with headlamps included (and ice cleats in winter). Departure times change with the seasons, so it’s worth checking ahead to plan dinner accordingly. And if the clouds roll in? Booking through Viator means you can cancel or reschedule for free within 24 hours, just in case.
Book this unforgettable stargazing tour here!
Related Read: If you need more activities to add to your itinerary, have a look at our top 10 favorite things to do in Banff here!
Where to Stay in Banff
Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Banff, you need somewhere perfect to stay! There are a ton of options, whether you’re looking for a lavish hotel or a social hostel. I’ve listed some of my favorite options below to help narrow down your choices!
Fairmont Banff Springs – $$$
The Fairmont Banff Springs is easily the most luxurious hotel in Banff. As you can expect, it’s not cheap, but the place is simply incredible – it seriously looks like a castle! If you’re visiting Banff on a honeymoon, then this should be the hotel you choose.
Inside, you’ll find 11 restaurants, 14 shops, a bowling alley, bars, a top-rated spa, a couple of pools, and so much more. With so much to do in this one-of-a-kind luxury hotel, you’ll honestly feel like you’ll never want to leave!
Rooms here at the Fairmont start from around $600 CAD a night, but can exceed the $1-2k CAD range in peak season. For the best deals, it’s best to book as far ahead as possible! You can check prices and room availability online here.
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort – $$
For those with a mid-range budget, the Banff Rocky Mountain Resort has a beautiful swimming pool, hot tub, and gym, and all the rooms come equipped with kitchenettes or full kitchens. We’d say this is the perfect option for families since two and three-bedroom units are also available.
The hotel is also in a good location that’s just a 5-minute drive away from town, so it’s a great place to enjoy the wonderful peace and quiet of the Banff countryside!
Rooms here average around $500–600 CAD per night in the high season, but dip as low as around $129 CAD in the low season. You can check availability and book Banff Rocky Mountain Resort online here.
Banff Inn – $$
Rooms at the Banff Inn have a very affordable price tag, but are also chock-full of all the amenities you could want to have a great stay! This way, you can splurge on those once-in-a-lifetime tours and experiences that make a trip to Banff so memorable.
The hotel is located right on Banff Ave, and all rooms are air-conditioned. Inside, you’ll find a hot tub, steam room, and sauna, as well as a restaurant and bar, perfect for a little bit of relaxation after a long day out exploring Banff.
Rooms here start at $143 CAD, but don’t forget to book the Banff Inn well in advance as this is one of the most popular hotels in Banff!
Samesun Banff Hostel – $
For folks looking to save some cash while having a blast in Banff, it’s worth checking out the Samesun Banff Hostel. It’s a great place for backpackers or anyone who’s fine with making some new friends and doesn’t mind sharing a dorm. But if you’re keen on privacy, keep in mind that there aren’t any private rooms available here.
A bed in a dorm here starts from around $45 CAD, including breakfast, and can be booked on either Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Important info: Accommodation in Banff can be tricky. For starters, you need to book well in advance if you want to have a large selection. I suggest booking a place ASAP! Using Booking.com is great too because lots of hotels offer free cancellation, so just lock in a place (or two) for now and make the final decision later!
Related Read: If you’re still wondering where to stay, have a look at our detailed guide here. It breaks down all of the best areas and hotels so you can find the perfect one for you!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
From mountaintop views to glacier-fed lakes, we hope this 3-day Banff itinerary helps you experience the best of what this incredible place has to offer. It’s a mix of must-see sights and a few personal favorites we keep returning to—no stress, just memorable moments. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Banff always finds a way to surprise you.
If you’re planning to explore more of Canada, we’ve got plenty of other destination guides to help you keep the adventure going—browse all our Canada blogs here, or check out a few of our top picks below. Happy traveling!